Workshop Purpose

Environmental research programs such as the U.S. Global Change Research Program attempt to improve our understanding of natural processes and the impact of human actions on Earth processes. Ideally, knowledge gained guides our decisions in achieving society's goals to live in harmony with nature. We gather data to test hypotheses and to measure change over time and space. Data centers compile, organize, preserve and distribute these data to scientists so they may advance our knowledge of changes in the global environment and advise decision-makers on the impacts of policy alternatives.

This workshop addresses what we must do at environmental data centers to actively assist scientists and policy makers to gain knowledge from data. In a plenary session with national leaders from science, policy, data centers and industry, we will address the big picture--why gaining knowledge from data is so important to the Nation--and its implications for data centers. Two sessions will tackle specific issues related to Data and Information, how they contribute to gaining knowledge about the environment, and implications for data center management strategy. A third session on Knowledge pulls together the pieces and identifies issues and challenges for data centers to address with the science community. The last morning will provide a forum for discussion and recommendations for data centers, for agencies, and for environmental research programs. A national leader (TBD) will articulate the crucial role of data centers in gaining knowledge through environmental science.

If you have any questions about the conference, please call 970-226-9303 or send an email to USGSglobalchange@aol.com.